Minister aims for effective criminal youth justice system

Getting youth justice right is a fundamental part of the Government's commitment to delivering an effective and inclusive criminal justice system for Northern Ireland, Criminal Justice Minister, John Spellar has said.

Mr Spellar was speaking at a youth justice conference in Newcastle, Co Down with a theme of 'Children in Trouble with the Law: What Works?'

The Conference has attracted delegates from all areas of the system involved with young people including those within the criminal justice community, health and education professionals, and the voluntary sector.

"There is no better way of building confidence in the youth justice system than by demonstrating that we can make a difference to the lives of young people and the communities in which they live," the Minister said.

"It is therefore a timely point within the wider criminal justice reform agenda, to reflect upon what we have already achieved, to examine what works and to plan for the future.

"It is vital that we take an honest and considered look at what really works in terms of youth justice."

Speakers at the two day conference include Irish Minister with special responsibility for children, Brian Lenihan, Nigel Williams, the Commissioner for Children in Northern Ireland and Professor James McGuire, a world-renowned expert on approaches that work with children who offend.

(MB)